Modular mobile device

ABSTRACT

Embodiments provide a shell module that accommodates form factors that define operational and aesthetic aspects of a modular device. Operational form factors of the shell module include constituent components that provide functional capabilities of the modular device. These constituent components are manipulated and powered by a core module, upon engagement thereto. In particular, the core module includes a power-source component for supplying power to the shell module and a processing component for managing the constituent components. The process of engagement includes executing a recognition procedure to determine a configuration of the shell module. The recognition procedure includes extracting available properties from the constituent components, utilizing the properties to determine an identity of each of the constituent components, and integrating operational control of the constituent components with the processing component. Accordingly, the core module communicates with the constituent components as if they are native to the core module.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

Not applicable.

STATEMENT REGARDING FEDERALLY SPONSORED RESEARCH OR DEVELOPMENT

Not applicable.

BACKGROUND

The present invention relates generally to the field of mobile devices,and more particularly to mobile devices that have various componentswhich may be disarticulated by physically separating a shell module anda core module.

Mobile devices, including personal digital assistants (PDAs), handsets,and other computing devices, often express aesthetic features or provideoperational aspects that are specific to that particular mobile device.Each of these “form factors” are tailored to a specific ergonomic orfunctional role. Accordingly, the capabilities and design of a mobiledevice is limited to the form factors accommodated therein. However, itis often the situation that one type of mobile device with a first setof form factors (e.g., ruggedized case with a durable keypad for anexposed environment) may be inappropriate for another context, which maynecessitate a type of mobile device with a second set of form factors(e.g., touch-sensitive screen with a clamshell hinge for an officeenvironment). Purchasing multiple mobile devices to satisfy eachanticipated context of use may be cost-prohibitive, while carryingmultiple mobile devices may be cumbersome if not unmanageable.

Further, transferring information between multiple phones isinconvenient and unsophisticated. For instance, memory cards (e.g., SIMcards) allow for transferring certain static information between mobiledevices. Memory cards and other present forms of information transferrequire a plurality of steps to complete the transfer and are notadapted to transfer an entire “user identity” (e.g., operating systems,applications, preferences, and content) between multiple mobile devices.Accordingly, employing a base unit that is engageable with variousshells comprising distinct form factors, would provide a robust methodof extending the features and functions of a mobile device to satisfythe demands of a particular context, and enhance a user's experiencewhen integrating a system architecture of the mobile device withdisparate capabilities.

SUMMARY

This Summary is provided to introduce a selection of concepts in asimplified form that are further described below in the DetailedDescription. This Summary is not intended to identify key features oressential features of the claimed subject matter nor is it intended tobe used as an aid in determining the scope of the claimed subjectmatter. The present invention is defined by the claims.

Embodiments of the invention have several practical applications in thetechnical arts, including apportioning operation control of constituentcomponents integral within a shell module to a core module. Typically,the components of the core module and the constituent components of theshell module are mutually exclusive. For instance, the shell module mayinclude the constituent components that provide the functionalcapabilities of the modular mobile device (e.g., keyboard, touchpad,camera element, display, etc.) and aesthetic aspects that influence theexternal appearance of the modular mobile device (e.g., hinged clamshelldesign, a ruggedized case, a slider mechanism, a headset jack, acharging jack, a PDA-style case, or a thinline-style case). Accordingly,these form factors facilitate replicating features of a particular styleof handset device. Upon engagement of the core module with the shellmodule, the core module is adapted to supply power to the shell module,thereby activating the constituent components and to manage theconstituent components as though they were native to the core module.Accordingly, a variety of form factors—combining to simulate aparticular handset—may be experienced by a user upon engaging the coremodule with a variety of distinct shell modules. Advantageously, theuser extends the capabilities of a handset by accessorizing the coremodule with shell modules, rather than carrying multiple devices orcompromising on feature and/or functionality requirements.

Embodiments of the present invention generally relate to a computerizedmethod for engaging a core module and a shell module to function inconjunction as a modular mobile device. Initially, the computerizedmethod includes, receiving an indication of the shell module attachingto the core module. In particular instances, receiving an indicationincludes, inter alia, the following processes: detecting an operablecoupling of a power-transfer connector exposed by the core module to ashell-power connector located on the shell module, where thepower-transfer connector is electrically connected to the power-sourcecomponent thereby allowing the core module to impart power to the shellmodule; and detecting an operable coupling of an input/output (I/O)connector exposed by the core module to a shell I/O located on the shellmodule, wherein the I/O connector is communicatively connected to theprocessor component.

Typically, a power-source component and a processing component areintegral to the core module while the shell module includes constituentcomponents that are mutually exclusive from the components of the coremodule. As such, power may be imparted to the shell module from thepower-source component, thereby attempting to activate the constituentcomponents of the shell. When activated, a recognition procedure isexecuted to determine a configuration of the shell module. Inembodiments, the recognition procedure includes extracting availableproperties from the constituent components and utilizing the propertiesto determine an identity of each of the constituent components.

Upon recognizing the constituent components, operational control of theconstituent components is integrated into the processing component.Accordingly, the processing component may manage the constituentcomponents as through they are native to the core module. In operation,managing may include receiving a user-initiated input from a firstrecognized constituent component at the processing component, andcontrolling operation of a second recognized constituent component via acommand generated by the processing component in response to theuser-initiated input. Further, when acting in conjunction as a modulardevice, the shell component may maintain awareness that it is inoperable communication with the core component by monitoring theintegrity of the coupling of the I/O connector to the shell I/O.

A second aspect of an embodiment takes the form of a modular mobiledevice for apportioning operation control of constituent componentsintegral within a shell module to a core module. Typically, the modularmobile device includes the shell module and the core module that operatein concert upon engagement of an input/output (I/O) interface exposed bythe core module and an I/O interface located on the shell module. In anexemplary embodiment, the shell module includes a set of form factorsreplicating features of a particular style of handset device. Inparticular, the form factors may include, but are not limited to,aesthetic aspects influencing the external appearance of the modularmobile device and the constituent components that provide a portion ofthe functional capabilities of the modular mobile device. In anexemplary embodiment, the core module is configured to manage theconstituent components upon engagement with the shell module.

In addition, the core module includes but is not limited to thefollowing elements: a power-source component to supply power to theshell module, thereby activating the constituent components such thatthey are detectable by the core module; a processing component tocontrol the operations of the constituent components upon the detectionthereof; and a radio component to promote communication between themodular mobile device and a wireless network. In one instance, thecomponents of the core module and the constituent components of theshell module are mutually exclusive.

In other embodiments, the core module may further include one or both ofthe following elements: a light-emitting element actuated according toan illumination scheme; or a memory component locally storing a systemarchitecture including an operating system, applications, shellprofiles, user-defined preferences, component drivers, and/or a filestructure. Typically, the system architecture is transferable to anothershell module upon engaging the core module therewith. In an exemplarydesign, the memory component is accessible by the processing componentto facilitate operably controlling the constituent component.

In a further aspect, embodiments of the present invention are directedtoward a method for disengaging a core module and a shell modulepreviously functioning as a modular mobile device. Initially, the methodincludes providing the shell module and the core module. Typically, apower-source component and a processing component are integral to thecore module while the shell module includes constituent components thatare mutually exclusive from the components of the core module. Inaddition, operational control of the constituent components isintegrated within the processing component such that the processingcomponent manages the constituent components as native to the coremodule. The shell module and the core module may be detached by, atleast, the following steps: decoupling a power-transfer connectorexposed by the core module from a shell-power connector located on theshell module, thereby disallowing the core module to impart power to theshell module; decoupling an input/output (I/O) connector exposed by thecore module from a shell I/O located on the shell module, therebydisarticulating operable control of the constituent components from theprocessing component; rendering the core module a stand-alone device;and maintaining functionality of the processing component as previouslyinstructed when engaged to the shell component. In an exemplaryembodiment, maintaining functionality of the processing componentincludes but is not limited to, storing instructions received from acorollary shell module previously integrated with the core module, andcontinuing to exert operational control of the corollary shell moduleaccording to the instructions.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE SEVERAL VIEWS OF THE DRAWINGS

Illustrative embodiments of the present invention are described indetail below with reference to the attached drawing figures, which areincorporated by reference herein and wherein:

FIG. 1 is diagrammatic view of an exemplary set of hardware componentsthat are accommodated on a core module, in accordance with an embodimentof the present invention;

FIG. 2 is a diagrammatic view of an exemplary set of software componentsembodied on a memory component of the core module for use inimplementing embodiments of the present invention;

FIG. 3 is diagrammatic view of an exemplary set of hardware componentsthat are accommodated on a shell module, in accordance with anembodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 4 is a diagrammatic view of an exemplary set of constituentcomponents that promote divergent capabilities of shell module hardware,in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 5 is a schematic diagram of an exemplary system architecturesuitable for use in implementing a modular mobile device withdisarticulated components, in accordance with an embodiment of thepresent invention;

FIGS. 6 and 7 depict a perspective view of an exemplary core module, inaccordance with an embodiment of the present invention;

FIGS. 8 and 9 depict a perspective view of an exemplary modular mobiledevice configured as a micro-shell, in accordance with an embodiment ofthe present invention;

FIGS. 10 and 11 depict a perspective view of an exemplary modular mobiledevice and a core module, respectively, for the purpose of demonstratingthe feature of persistent configuration, in accordance with anembodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 12 is a perspective view of an exemplary modular mobile device thathas form factors replicating a hinged clamshell design, in accordancewith an embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 13 is a perspective view of an exemplary modular mobile device thathas form factors replicating a slider design, in accordance with anembodiment of the present invention;

FIGS. 14A, B, and C are flow diagram showing an overall method forattaching a shell module to a core module, in accordance with anembodiment of the present invention; and

FIG. 15 is a flow diagram showing an overall method for disengaging ashell module from a core module, in accordance with an embodiment of thepresent invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Embodiments provide a shell module that accommodates form factors thatdefine the functional and aesthetic aspects of a modular mobile device.The operational form factors of the shell module (i.e., constituentcomponents that provide functional capabilities of the modular device),may be manipulated and powered by a core module, upon engagementthereto. In particular, the core module includes a power-sourcecomponent for supplying power to the shell module and a processingcomponent for managing the operational form factors. The process ofengagement may include executing a recognition procedure to determine aconfiguration of the shell module. In particular instances, therecognition procedure includes but is not limited to extractingavailable properties from the constituent components, utilizing theproperties to determine an identity of each of the constituentcomponents, and integrating operational control of the constituentcomponents with the processing component.

In an exemplary embodiment, integrating operation control includes,inter alia, the following steps: comparing the properties of theidentified constituent components against shell profiles to determinecapabilities of the identified constituent components; appending thedetermined capabilities to a device menu structure; utilizing the devicemenu structure to instantiate a driver element within the processingcomponent to operably control each of the constituent components; andrendering the constituent components functional. In other embodiments,integrating operation control includes, inter alia, the following steps:determining that the properties of one or more of the identifiedconstituent components are absent from the shell profiles; automaticallyinstalling capabilities associated with one or more of the identifiedconsistent components based on properties thereof; and appending theinstalled capabilities to the device menu structure. As such engagementallows the processing component to manage the constituent components asthrough they are native to the core module (i.e., operating in concertwith the components integral to the core module).

Various technical terms are used throughout this description. Adefinition of such terms can be found in Newtons Telecom Dictionary byH. Newton, 22^(nd) Edition (2006). These definitions are intended toprovide a clearer understanding of the ideas disclosed herein but arenot intended to limit the scope of the present invention. Thedefinitions and terms should be interpreted broadly and liberally to theextent allowed the meaning of the words offered in the above-citedreference.

As one skilled in the art will appreciate that embodiments may beembodied as, among other things, a computer-program product.Accordingly, the embodiments may take the form of a hardware embodiment,a software embodiment, or an embodiment combining software and hardware.In one embodiment, the present invention takes the form of acomputer-program product that includes computer-useable instructionsembodied on one or more computer-readable media.

Computer-readable media include both volatile and nonvolatile media,removable and nonremovable media, and contemplates media readable by adatabase, a switch, and various other network devices. By way ofexample, computer-readable media comprise media implemented in anymethod or technology for storing information. Examples of storedinformation include computer-useable instructions, data structures,program modules, and other data representations. Media examples includeinformation-delivery media, RAM, ROM, EEPROM, flash memory or othermemory technology, CD-ROM, digital versatile discs (DVD), holographicmedia or other optical disc storage, magnetic cassettes, magnetic tape,magnetic disk storage, and other magnetic storage devices. Thesetechnologies can store data momentarily, temporarily, or permanently.

Embodiments relate to a modular mobile device for apportioning operationcontrol of constituent components integral within a shell module to acore module. As illustrated at FIGS. 1 and 2, the core module includesvarious hardware and software components. With reference to FIG. 1 inparticular, a diagrammatic view of an exemplary set of hardwarecomponents 100 that are accommodated on a core module is shown, inaccordance with an embodiment of the present invention. Generally, theset of hardware components 100 includes one or more of the followingdiscrete constituents: a case 105; a radio component 110 (e.g., a mainboard, a processor, a memory store, and essential electronics) tofacilitate communication between the modular mobile device and awireless network; a processing component 115 (e.g., to control theoperations of the constituent components upon detection thereof). Theprocessing component 115, as shown in FIG. 1, may take the form ofvarious types of processors that are commonly deployed in a personalcomputing device, a handheld device, a consumer electronic device, andthe like.

Further, the set of hardware components 100 may include one or more ofthe following discrete constituents: a GPS module 120; a primary antenna125, a GPS antenna 130, a card reader 135 (e.g., a Micro SD card reader)for uploading/downloading to transferable memory devices; a power-sourcecomponent 140 (e.g., battery, solar cell, connection to an electricaloutlet) to supply power to the shell module thereby activating theconstituent components such that they are detectable by the core module.The case 105, in embodiments, may be configured to be disposed on, orinsert within, a shell module. Advantageously, because there are areduced number of members in the set of hardware components 100, as theyare housed on the shell module instead, the dimensions of the case 105to envelop the members may be minimal.

In additional embodiments, the set of hardware components 100 includesone or more of the following discrete constituents: an external powerconnector 145 in operable communication with the power-source component140; and a light emitting element (LED) 150 that is typically actuatedaccording to an illumination scheme. The illumination scheme isgenerally a set of rules that cause the LED 150 to activate based on astatus of the modular mobile device. For instance, the LED 150 may beinstructed by the illumination scheme to activate at a particular powerstate of the power-source component 140, or to alert a user uponsuccessful engagement of the core module with the shell module (e.g., bymonitoring an I/O interface). Further, the LED 150 may functionseparately from the illumination scheme to respond to user-initiatedactuations. By way of example, the LED 150 may provide diagnosticfeedback (e.g., by flashing particular light patterns) to apprise theuser of present or potential errors in operation. Although described asa light display herein, the LED 150 may be any mechanism thatcommunicates information to the user and may include one or more of thefollowing embodiments: a fluorescent light; an incandescent light; anLCD; a laser; an electroluminescent light source; a chemical light; ahalogen light, a flexible light wire, or an audio-emitting mechanism.

The set of hardware components 100 may additionally include one or moreof the following discrete constituents: a power-transfer connector 155electrically connected to the power-source component 140 that allowsconstituent components housed in the shell module to draw powertherefrom; and an I/O connector 160 communicatively connected to theprocessing component 115 that allows the core module to communicate withconstituent components and other peripheral elements as if they werenative to the core module. It should be understood that the connectionsmay be indirectly or directly made via wired or wireless technology. Asdiscussed more fully below, the power-transfer connector 155 and the I/Oconnector 160 comprise an I/O interface on the core module that can beengaged to an I/O interface on a compatible shell module. This I/Ointerface may be a single connector or a plurality of separateconnectors. In one instance, the I/O interface is one or more connectorsthat, when connected, enable the processing component 115 to monitor theintegrity of the connection and to detect which constituent componentsare active and adjust the core module software accordingly. Theseconnectors may be a multi-pin blade style connector that has pinsassigned for data transfer and charging pass-through, or any otherconnector or technology that supports communication/power-transferbetween devices.

The set of hardware components 100 may additionally include a memorycomponent 165 for locally storing a system architecture (see referencenumeral 200 of FIG. 2). In operation, the system architecture istransferable from one shell module to another upon engaging the coremodule therewith. Thus, a “user identity” is localized at the coremodule and is maintained in each configuration of the modular mobiledevice. Further, the memory component 165 is accessible by theprocessing component 115 to facilitate operably controlling theconstituent components of a shell module.

Although various different configurations of the set of hardwarecomponents 100 have been described and illustrated in FIG. 1, it shouldbe understood and appreciated by those of ordinary skill in the art thatother types of suitable components that add functionality or structureare contemplated herein, and that embodiments of the present inventionare not limited to those components described above. For instance, inimplementations of the core module, one or more of a Bluetooth™transceiver, a display panel, or an input mechanism may be provided, aswell as any constituent components employed by the shell module. But, inan exemplary embodiment, the set of hardware components 100 and theconstituent components (see reference numeral 325 of FIG. 4) aremutually exclusive.

Turning now to FIG. 2, a diagrammatic view of an exemplary set ofsoftware components 200 embodied on the memory component 165 of the coremodule for use in implementing embodiments of the present invention isshown. Generally, the set of software components 200 includes one ormore of the following discrete constituents: an operating system 205(e.g., Java, BREW, and AMS environments); user-defined preferences 210or instructions embodied on computer-readable media; applications 215(e.g., web browser, calendar, PIM, contact suite, clients for preloadedservices); and shell profiles 220.

Generally, the shell profiles 220 are applications that interface andcorrespond to various shell modules. For instance, upon attaching aparticular shell module and querying the constituent components toextract properties therefrom, the properties of the constituentcomponents may be compared against the shell profiles 220 to identify,and determine the capabilities of, the responsive constituentcomponents. In an exemplary embodiment, determining the capabilitiesincludes interrogating the shell profiles 220 to select an appropriatepredefined list of capabilities intrinsic to the constituent components.This list of capabilities exposes the functionality inherent in theshell module. Upon identifying the proper list of capabilities, it maybe appended to a device menu structure, thereby merging thefunctionality of the shell module to that of the core module. In oneinstance, merging functionality may comprise determining how theapplications 215 and the operating system 205 in the core module willinteract with the constituent components (e.g., camera element,keyboard, display) inherent in the form factors of the shell unit and/orleveraging the new capabilities written to the device menu structure tomanage and communicate with the constituent components.

In another embodiment, the shell profiles 220 comprise a set of rules,where the rules are mapped to capabilities available on an inclusivelist of shell modules. Typically, each listed shell module is associatedwith a predefined set of constituent components. As such, eachcapability that may be built into the listed shell modules may beincorporated in one or more of the shell profiles 220. Thus, theoperation of a shell module, and constituent components therein, may befacilitated by extracting information describing its capabilities from acorresponding shell profile 220 and assembling the extractedcapabilities to the current capabilities of the core module. In oneinstance, the facilitating operation may be accomplished by enabling anddisabling capabilities within the device menu structure based on a shellmodule recognized in the shell profiles 220.

By way of example only, if a QWERTY keyboard is one of the constituentcomponents housed by an engaged shell module, the core module willunderstand the capabilities associated with the QWERTY keyboard andassemble them into the standard operation of the core module. Thesecapabilities may include, the receipt of alpha-numeric input, enablementof a document-reader application, and activation of messaging software.However, if only a number pad is available on the shell module, thesecapabilities listed above may be disabled as need for editing andmessaging functionality is negated, or these capabilities may beleveraged via the number pad with a different input expectation, such amultiple-tap or predictive text method. Thus, the shell profiles 220allow the core module to manage disparate remote components and enablethe core module to accept a variety of inputs from many differentschemes without the need for translation between modules.

If a shell module engaged to the core modules does not match any of theshell profiles 220 available in the discrete list, the core module mayrevert to a dormant state, continue as if no shell module were attached,or attempt to learn the capabilities of the shell module in order tofunction in conjunction therewith. In one instance, new software ispushed from the constituent components to the core as a new shellprofile 220 (e.g., flash chip in the shell module that installs a driveron the core module via a downloadable shell profile). In anotherinstance, the appropriate capabilities associated with the engaged shellmodule are automatically downloaded from a website via a wired orwireless uplink at the core module. In either situation, upon installingthe proper capabilities and teaching itself how to manage theconstituent components utilizing the installed capabilities, the coremodule regards the constituent components as if they were native to thedevice.

The set of software components 200 may further include one or more ofthe following discrete constituents: a file structure 230, componentdriver(s) 235; or any other software related to the system architectureof a modular mobile device. In embodiments, the shell profiles 220detail properties and capabilities of known shell module configurations.The configurations may be uniquely indexed to facilitate theidentification of constituent components accommodated by an attachedshell module. Accordingly, the shell profiles 220 allow the integrationof recognized capabilities into a menu structure within the operatingsystem 205, where the menu structure partially facilitates managing thefunctionality of the modular mobile device. By way of example, managingthe functionality may include accepting input from input mechanisms,such as keyboards, buttons of various types, touch screens, etc, andrelating information to output mechanisms of various types, such asspeakers, displays, LEDs, etc.

The file structure 230, is generally provided for allowing information,content, and software to be selectively accessed and manipulated inaccordance with capabilities of constituent components located on anattached shell module. In addition, the component driver(s) 235 mayallow for integration of native core components (e.g., the set ofhardware components 100 illustrated in FIG. 1) with the constituentcomponents of an engaged shell module via the operating system 205.Although various different configurations of an exemplary set ofsoftware components 200 embodied on the memory component 165 have beendescribed and illustrated in FIG. 2, it should be understood andappreciated by those of ordinary skill in the art that other types ofsuitable components that implement functionality of the components ofthe shell module and/or the core module are contemplated herein, andthat embodiments of the present invention are not limited to thosecomponents described above. For instance, in implementations of thememory component 165, the system architecture may be configurable basedon a type of shell module presently in communication with the coremodule. But, in an exemplary embodiment, the system architecture of thecore module is agnostic to the form factors of the shell module.

With reference to FIG. 3, a diagrammatic view of an exemplary set ofhardware components 300 that are accommodated on a shell module, inaccordance with an embodiment of the present invention, are shown andare described hereinbelow.

In general, the shell module includes a set of form factors thatreplicate features of a particular style of handset device. In addition,the form factors include aesthetic aspects and constituent components.In one instance, the aesthetic aspects influence the external appearanceof the modular mobile device. In another, the constituent componentsprovide a portion of the functional capabilities of the modular mobiledevice.

Generally, the exemplary set of hardware components 300 includes one ormore of the following discrete elements: a case 305; a shell-powerconnector 315; a shell I/O connector 320; and the constituent components325. The case 305 may replicate the outer housing of any presently knownmodular mobile device or handset or may include a combination offeatures exhibited by these devices.

In embodiments, the case 305 may simulate a handset that is specificallydesigned to have an aesthetically pleasing form factor and/or to takeadvantage of a specific set of popular features. By way of example, thecase 305 may emulate a phone that is designed with visually appealingaesthetic aspects (e.g., a hinged clamshell design, a ruggedized case, aslider mechanism, a headset jack, a charging jack, a PDA-style case, aruggedized clamshell design, a QWERTY messaging side-flip, a touchscreenand QWERTY PDA, a micro-shell, and/or a thinline-style case) andincludes functionality identified as expected in modern cell phones.Typically, the functionality is embodied in the constituent components,more fully discussed below with reference to FIG. 4.

The aesthetic aspects of a ruggedized case, a messaging design, aPDA-style case, and a micro-shell, which may be implemented as featuresof the case 305, will now be discussed. Initially, the ruggedized caseencompasses a handset that is designed for durability and resistance todamage and/or harsh environmental elements that pose risk of damagebeyond the average consumer's normal usage. Accordingly, the ruggedizedcase may be over-engineered for durability. The messaging designencompasses a handset designed for messaging operations and oftenincorporates within the case 305 a form factor that is particularlysuited to typing, such as a QWERTY keyboard, a landscape flip, apredictive-text capability, or any keypad layout or software thatfacilitates typing. Accordingly, the case 305 designed for messaging maymake compromises in form factors that favor messaging over voice callsand other typical mobile device usage. The PDA-style case is designed topromote connectivity to other computing devices. In instances, promotingconnectivity includes installing internet browsers, providing ability toread and interact with documents, providing the ability to supportcomplex third-party content, and providing the ability to access andmanage enterprise email and calendars. Accordingly, the PDS-style casewill complement these abilities by offering a display and inputmechanism that supports data-entry and complex-content presentation. Themicro-shell, as depicted in FIGS. 8 and 9, is a miniature module devicewith a compact exterior that serves as the case 305. Because the coremodule typically includes just essential electronic components, it canbe reduced in size, thus, allowing the micro-shell to be reduced in sizeas well. Further, the reduced number of form factors that are built intothe micro-shell are compact, thereby making the shell module moreconvenient to carry.

Although various styles of the case 305 have been described above, itshould be understood and appreciated by those of ordinary skill in theart that other types of suitable form factors, or combinations of theform factors above, that provide aesthetic aspects may be used, and thatembodiments of the present invention are not limited to those cases andform factors described herein.

The shell I/O connector 320 is communicatively connected to theconstituent components and is operably coupled to the I/O connector (seereference numeral 160 of FIG. 1) of the core module during engagement ofthe shell module therewith. The shell-power connector 315 iselectrically connected to the constituent components and is operablycoupled to the power-transfer connector (see reference numeral 155 ofFIG. 1) of the core module during engagement of the shell moduletherewith. As discussed above, the connection may be directly orindirectly made by wired or wireless technology. In addition, theshell-power connector 315 and the shell I/O connector 320 comprise theI/O interface located on the shell module that is engageable to the I/Oconnector housed on the core module. These connectors 315 and 320 may beany type of connector or linking technology that mechanically mates to,or is communicatively comparable with the connectors exposed by the coremodule.

With reference to FIG. 4, a diagrammatic view is illustrated that showsan exemplary set of the constituent components 325 that promotesdivergent capabilities of shell module hardware, in accordance with anembodiment of the present invention. The constituent components 325include, but are not limited to, one or more of the followingcomponents: a primary display 405 (e.g., touchscreen, display panel,capacitive screen, LCD); an extended memory 410 that may retain data inconjunction with the memory component (see reference numeral 165 of FIG.2) of the core module; a secondary display 415 (e.g., external displayon a flip-style phone); a booster antenna 420 that may function inseries or in parallel with the antennas disposed on the core module (seereference numerals 125 and 130 of FIG. 1); input devices 425 (e.g.,keypad, trackball, voice recognition, touchscreen); a secondary battery430 that may work in conjunction with the power-source component (seereference numeral 140 of FIG. 1) of the core module, such as for sharingpower reserves upon disengagement; a camera 435; or audio components 440(e.g., a speaker, a receiver, an audible alert). These constituentcomponents 325 may be combined in any manner to provide thefunctionality of the shell module, and, implicitly, to provide a portionof the functionality of the modular mobile device. Further, one ofordinary skill in the art will understand that other constituentcomponents 325 may be employed that are available in the relevant field.As such, embodiments of the present invention are not limited toconstituent components described herein but encompass a wide range ofmechanical and/or electrical devices that may be disposed on, oroperably coupled to, the shell module.

An exemplary module mobile device composed of a core module and a shellmodule will now be described with reference to the accompanyingdrawings. The drawings and the associated descriptions are provided toillustrate embodiments of the present invention and not to limit thescope thereof. Reference in the specification to an “embodiment” isintended to indicate that a particular feature, structure, orcharacteristic described in connection with the embodiment is includedin at least one embodiment of the invention. Further, the appearance ofthe phrase “in one embodiment” in various places in the specificationare not necessarily all referring to the same embodiment.

Referring to FIG. 5, a schematic diagram of an exemplary systemarchitecture 500 suitable for use in implementing a modular mobiledevice with disarticulated components is illustrated, in accordance withan embodiment of the present invention. It should be noted thatthroughout the drawings, reference numerals are reused to indicatecorrespondence between referenced elements. Initially, the schematicdiagram portrays an illustrative shell module 505 physically detachedfrom a core module 510. However, for the purpose of explanation, theshell module 505 and the core module 510 will be described as beingengaged via operable couplings 520 and 525.

In embodiments, the shell module 505 includes the constituent components325 and an I/O interface 530 that is comprised of the shell I/Oconnector 320, the shell-power connector 315, and any other connectorsor coupling components that support communication with the core module510. In embodiments, the core module 510 includes the radio component110, the processing component 115, the power-source component 140, thelight-emitting element 150, the memory component 165, and an I/Ointerface 515. In one instance, the I/O interface 515 may include theI/O connector 160, the power-transfer connector 155, and any otherconnectors or coupling components that support communication with thecore module 510. Accordingly, in this embodiment, the shell moduleincludes constituent components that are mutually exclusive from thecomponents of the core module.

Generally, the I/O connector 160 is communicatively connected (seedashed lines of FIG. 5) to the processing component 115, which is indirect or indirect communication with the memory component 165 and thelight-emitting component 150. Generally, the power-transfer connector155 is electrically (see solid lines of FIG. 5) connected to thepower-source component 140 thereby allowing the core module 510 toimpart power to the shell module 505. The shell I/O connector 320 may becommunicatively connected to the constituent components 325 and isoperably coupled 525 to the I/O connector 515 of the core module 510during engagement of the shell module 505 therewith. The shell-powerconnector 315 is electrically connected to the constituent components325 and is operably coupled to the power-transfer connector 155 of thecore module 510 during engagement of the shell module 505 therewith.

When the I/O interface 530 and the I/O interface 515 are engaged, thecore module 510 and a shell module 505 tend to function as a singlemodular mobile device. The procedure of establishing engagement of thecore module 510 and the shell module 505 will now be discussed.Initially, an indication that the shell module 505 is initiating aconnection to the core module 510 is received. Upon detecting theoperable coupling 525 and 520 of the I/O interface 515 exposed by thecore module 510 to the I/O interface 530 located on the shell module505, power may be imparted to the shell module 505 from the power-sourcecomponent 140, thereby attempting to activate the constituent components325 of the shell module 505. However, incident to administering powerfrom the power-transfer connector 155 to the shell-power connector 315via the operable coupling 520 and monitoring the data transfer betweenthe shell I/O connector 320 and the I/O connector 160 exposed by thecore module 510, a determination of whether one or more of theconstituent components 325 are activated is performed. If each of theconstituent components 325 remain deactivated, an error messageindicating an incompatible shell module is produced. In this instance,the state of the core module may remain unchanged from its precedingconnection to another shell module.

But, if one or more of the constituent components 325 become activated,a recognition procedure to determine a configuration of the shell module505 is executed. In an exemplary embodiment, the recognition procedureincludes, inter alia, one or more of the following steps in noparticular order: extracting available properties from the constituentcomponents 325 via the operable coupling 525; utilizing the propertiesto determine an identity of each of the constituent components 325; andintegrating operational control of the constituent components 325 withthe processing component 115. As such, the processing component 115 maymanage the constituent components 325 as through they are native to thecore module 510. Incident to establishing operation control of theconstituent components 325, the core module 510 may maintain awarenessthat the shell component 505 is in operable communication therewith bymonitoring the integrity of the operable coupling 520 and/or 525 of theI/O interfaces 515 and 530.

In one embodiment of integrating operation control, as discussed above,properties may be extracted from the constituent components 325 andcommunicated to the core module 510. The properties may be comparedagainst shell profiles to determine capabilities of the constituentcomponents 325. As more fully discussed above, the shell profiles mayinclude a list of the capabilities intrinsic to the constituentcomponents 325. These capabilities may be appended to a device menustructure, thereby allowing the processing component 115 to manage theconstituent components 325 in concert with the components 110, 140, and165 integral to the core module 510. In another embodiment, theproperties of the constituent components 325 may be determined absentfrom the shell profiles. In this case, capabilities associated with theconsistent components 325 may be automatically installed based onproperties thereof. Installation may be from the constituent components325 themselves, an extended memory at the shell module 505, or a thirdparty (e.g., server accessible via a wireless connection). Theseinstalled capabilities may be appended to the device menu structure,similar to above. The device menu structure facilitates integratingoperation control by, at least, instantiating a driver element withinthe processing component 115 to operably control each of the constituentcomponents 325 and/or rendering the constituent components 325functional.

Persons familiar with the field of the invention will realize thatalthough the recognition procedure is described as involving a pluralityof discrete steps, the scope of the invention may embrace variousprocedures which are different from the specific illustrated embodimentabove. Therefore it is emphasized that embodiments of the invention arenot limited only to the procedural embodiments but may include a widevariety of recognition processes that fall within the spirit of theclaims. For instance, the recognition procedure may be implemented usingthe steps of interrogating the constituent components 325 to determinewhether properties are available for communication, and if theproperties are unavailable, producing an error message; otherwise,identifying the constituent components 325 in accordance with theproperties extracted therefrom.

Although described above as a mechanical coupling, the engagement maycomprise a wired connection, a wireless connection, or a combinationthereof. In addition, the engagement may include, without limitation,one or more wLANs and/or wWANs for remote operable coupling. Suchnetworking environments are commonplace in offices, enterprise-widecomputer networks, intranets, and the Internet; thus, the remoteoperable engagement is not further described herein. Although thevarious components of FIG. 5 are shown with lines for the sake ofclarity, in reality, delineating various components is not so clear, andmetaphorically, the lines would more accurately be grey or fuzzy.Further, although some components of FIG. 5 are depicted as singleblocks, the depictions are exemplary in nature and in number and are notto be construed as limiting (e.g., although only one processingcomponent 115 is shown, many more may be communicatively connected tothe I/O connector 160).

Turning now to FIGS. 6 and 7, a perspective view is illustrated showingan exemplary core module 600, in accordance with an embodiment of thepresent invention. Initially, because the core module 600 includesmainly essential electronic and telecommunication components, thedimensions of the core module 600 are relatively minimal. Theseessential components may include a display panel 610, the power-sourcecomponent 140 (e.g., battery), the light-emitting element 150, the I/Oconnector 515, the processing component (not shown), and the memorycomponent (not shown). Accordingly, the core module 600 may assume acompact configuration that is easily transportable and can betransparently engaged with shell components having streamlined formfactors.

Referring to FIGS. 8 and 9, a perspective view of an exemplary modularmobile device 800 configured as a micro-shell 810 is shown, inaccordance with an embodiment of the present invention. Generally, themicro-shell 810 is a specific shell module designed for the compact formof the core module 600. Essentially, the micro-shell 810 is configuredto be minimal in shape but retain substantial interactivity with a user.The micro-shell 810 is wearable, particularly during exercise, andincludes holster-style opening 900 with a physical retention mechanism830 to receive and capture the core module 600. In addition, themicro-shell includes a small touch-sensitive screen 840 for UI input andoutput, and/or a rotating clip 820 mounted opposed to thetouch-sensitive screen 840. In an exemplary embodiment, the micro-shell810 does not include a microphone, speaker, or headphone jack, therebyallowing for reduction of volume required by the micro-shell 810.

But, in some instance, the micro-shell 810 may include a near-rangewireless transceiver (e.g., Bluetooth™ element) to communicate with acompatible headset. As discussed above, the core module 600 remains inthe state established during a connection to a preceding shell module.As such, upon disengagement of the micro-shell 810 and the core module600, the headset will maintain awareness of, and connection with, thewireless transceiver. That is, upon physical detachment, theconfigurations of the core module are persistent until a reconfigurationis instantiated upon detecting a subsequent connection to a disparateshell module.

The feature of persistent configuration of the core module 600 will bediscussed below with respect to FIGS. 10 and 11, which depict aperspective view of an exemplary modular mobile device 1000 and the coremodule 600, respectively, for the purpose of demonstrating the featureof persistent configuration, in accordance with an embodiment of thepresent invention. Initially, the modular mobile device 1000 includes ashell module 1010 that is connected to a headset 1020 via a wire 1230 toport 1040. The modular mobile device 1000 includes form factors thatsimulate a PDA with a QWERTY keyboard and a touchscreen display 1060.The form factors, as illustrated, include the constituent components ofa recharging jack 1050, a microphone 1090, a speaker 1080, the QWERTYkeyboard 1011, and the touchscreen display 1060. The form factors mayalso include aesthetic features of a slim profile 1012, as illustrated.

Generally, disengaging the core module 600 and the shell module 1010previously functioning as the modular mobile device 1000 includesdetaching the shell module 1010 from the core module 600. In particular,detaching may include decoupling a power-transfer connector (not shown)exposed by the core module 600 from a shell-power connector (not shown)located on the shell module 1010, thereby disallowing the core module600 to impart power to the shell module 1010. In addition, detaching mayfurther include decoupling an I/O connector (not shown) exposed by thecore module 600 from a shell I/O connector (not shown) located on theshell module 1010, thereby disarticulating operable control of theconstituent components 1011, 1050, 1060, 1080, and 1090 from theprocessing component (not shown). Accordingly, the core module 600 isrendered a stand-alone device, as depicted in FIG. 11. But, the coremodule 600 still may maintain functionality of the processing componentas previously instructed when engaged to the shell module 1010. By wayof example, processing component of the core module 600 remains incommunication with headset 1020 over a wireless link 1100 facilitated bya near-range wireless transceiver (not shown), as discussed more fullyabove with reference to the micro-shell. In embodiments, maintainingfunctionality comprises storing instructions received from the headset1020 previously integrated with the core module 600, and continuing toexert operational control of the headset 1020 according to theinstructions.

With reference to FIG. 12, a perspective view of an exemplary modularmobile device 1200 that has form factors replicating a hinged clamshelldesign is shown, in accordance with an embodiment of the presentinvention. Initially, the modular mobile device 1200 includes the coremodule 600 engaged to, and disposed within, a shell module 1210. Theshell module 1210 includes constituent components comprising a displaypanel 1250 and a numeric keypad 1260. In addition, the shell module 1210includes a recharging jack (not shown) electrically connected to acradle 1220 that may accept a flow of power via a wire 1230. Asdiscussed above, the flow of power may be transferred to the core modulethrough the I/O interface to recharge the power-supply component (notshown) internal thereto.

Turning to FIG. 13, a perspective view of an exemplary modular mobiledevice 1300 that has form factors replicating a slider design 1330 isshown, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.Initially, the modular mobile device 1300 includes the core module 600engaged to, and disposed within, a shell module 1310. The shell module1310 includes form factors of constituent components comprising a cameraelement 1340 and an extended memory 1320 to locally retain imagescaptured by the camera element 1340, and an aesthetic aspect of a slimprofile.

Referring now to FIG. 14, a flow diagram is illustrated that shows anoverall method 1400 for attaching a shell module to a core module, inaccordance with an embodiment of the present invention. Although theterms “step” and “block” are used hereinbelow to connote differentelements of methods employed, the terms should not be interpreted asimplying any particular order among or between various steps hereindisclosed unless and except when the order of individual steps isexplicitly described.

Initially, an indication of an attachment of a core module to a shellmodule is received, as indicated at block 1402. In embodiments,receiving the indication may include the following processes: receivingan indication of an operable couple between a power-transfer connectorexposed by the core module to a shell-power connector located on theshell module (see block 1414), and receiving an indication of anoperable couple between an I/O connector exposed by the core module to ashell I/O located on the shell module (see block 1416). As depicted atblock 1404, power is imparted to the shell module in an attempt toactivate constituent components of the shell module. The transfer ofdata is monitored from the shell module, as depicted at block 1406.

Based on the monitored transfer of data, a determination of whether oneor more of the constituent components are active is performed, asindicated at block 1408. If, upon determination, the constituentcomponents are identified as nonactive, an error message is producedthat indicates the shell module is incompatible with the core module, asindicated at block 1418. Otherwise, the constituent components areinterrogated by the core module, as indicated at block 1410.

Incident to interrogation, a determination of whether properties of theconstituent components are available is performed, as indicated at block1412. If it is determined that the constituent components haveunavailable properties, an error message is produced indicating theinability to identify the constituent components, as indicated at block1420. Otherwise, the constituent components are identified as beingassociated with the available properties that are extracted therefrom,as indicated at block 1422.

As indicated at block 1424, a recognition procedure to determine aconfiguration of the shell module is executed. In a particularembodiment, the recognition procedure includes but is not limited to,the following procedures, in no particular order: extracting availableproperties from the identified constituent components (see block 1432),utilizing the properties to determine an identity of the constituentcomponents (see block 1434), and comparing the properties of theidentified constituent components against shell profiles to determinecapabilities of the constituent components (see block 1436). Therecognition procedure may further include determining whether theproperties of the constituent components are comparable to the shellprofiles, as indicated at block 1438. If the properties are comparable,the determined capabilities are appended to a device menu structure, asindicated at block 1440. Otherwise, the capabilities associated with theconstituent components, based on the properties thereof, may beautomatically installed (see block 1446), and the installed capabilitiesmay be appended to the device menu structure (see block 1448).

Returning to FIG. 14B, as indicated at block 1426, the operation controlof the constituent components are integrated within the processingcomponent of the core module. As indicated at block 1428, a user may bealerted of the successful engagement of the core module to the shellmodule. As indicated at block 1430, the constituent components aremanaged as if native to the core module. In embodiments, managing mayinclude the exemplary situation of receiving a user-initiated input froma first recognized constituent component at the processing component(see block 1442) and controlling operation of a second recognizedconstituent component via a command generated by the processingcomponent (see block 1444).

Turning to FIG. 15, a flow diagram showing an overall method 1500 fordisengaging a shell module from a core module is depicted, in accordancewith an embodiment of the present invention. Initially, as depicted atblock 1510, a shell module is provided with a core module engagedtherewith, thereby exerting operational control over the shell module.As indicated at block 1512, an indication that the shell module isdetached, or otherwise disengaged, from the core module is received.Receiving an indication may include receiving an indication ofdecoupling a power-transfer connector of the core module from ashell-power connector of the shell module (see block 1502), andreceiving an indication of decoupling an I/O connector of the coremodule from a shell I/O of the shell module (see block 1504).Accordingly, as indicated at block 1514, the core module is rendered asa stand-alone device.

As indicated at block 1516, the functionality of the processingcomponent is maintained as instructed during engagement. In embodiments,maintaining function in a persistent state may include, storinginstructions received from a shell module previously integrated with thecore module (see block 1506), and continuing to exert operationalcontrol over the constituent components of the removed shell module (seeblock 1508).

Many different arrangements of the various components depicted, as wellas components not shown, are possible without departing from the spiritand scope of the present invention. Embodiments of the present inventionhave been described with the intent to be illustrative rather thanrestrictive. Alternative embodiments will become apparent to thoseskilled in the art that do not depart from its scope.

It will be understood that certain features and subcombinations are ofutility and may be employed without reference to other features andsubcombinations and are contemplated within the scope of the claims. Notall steps listed in the various figures need be carried out in thespecific order described.

1. A modular mobile device for apportioning operation control ofconstituent components integral within a shell module to a core module,the modular mobile device comprising: the shell module including a setof form factors replicating features of a particular style of handsetdevice, wherein the form factors comprise: (1) aesthetic aspectsinfluencing the external appearance of the modular mobile device; and(2) the constituent components providing a portion of the functionalcapabilities of the modular mobile device; the core module to manage theconstituent components upon engagement with the shell module, the coremodule comprising: (1) a power-source component to supply power to theshell module thereby activating the constituent components such thatthey are detectable by the core module; (2) a processing component tocontrol the operations of the constituent components upon the detectionthereof; and (3) a radio component to promote communication between themodular mobile device and a wireless network, wherein the components ofthe core module and the constituent components of the shell module aremutually exclusive; and the core module to manage the constituentcomponents upon disengaging with the shell module and rendering the coremodule a standalone device, wherein managing the constituent componentscomprises receiving instructions at the processing component duringengagement with the shell module, storing the instructions at the coremodule, and continuing to exert operational control of at least oneconstituent component associate with the shell module according to theinstructions.
 2. The modular mobile device of claim 1, wherein the coremodule further comprises a light-emitting element actuated according toan illumination scheme, wherein the illumination scheme is derived froma status of the modular mobile device.
 3. The modular mobile device ofclaim 1, wherein the core module further comprises a memory componentlocally storing a system architecture including an operating system,applications, shell profiles, user-defined preferences, componentdrivers, and a file structure, wherein the system architecture istransferable to another shell module upon engaging the core moduletherewith, and wherein the memory component is accessible by theprocessing component to facilitate operably controlling the constituentcomponents.
 4. The modular mobile device of claim 1, wherein the coremodule exposes an input/output (I/O) interface engageable to an I/Ointerface located on the shell module, wherein the I/O interface exposedby the core module comprises: (1) an I/O connector communicativelyconnected to the processing component; and (2) a power-transferconnector electrically connected to the power-source component, whereinthe I/O interface located on the shell module comprises: (1) a shell I/Oconnector communicatively connected to the constituent components and isoperably coupled to the I/O connector of the core module duringengagement of the shell module therewith; and (2) a shell-powerconnector electrically connected to the constituent components and isoperably coupled to the power-transfer connector of the core moduleduring engagement of the shell module therewith.
 5. The modular mobiledevice of claim 1, wherein the constituent components comprise at leastone of a keyboard, a touchpad, a primary display, a secondary display, aspeaker, a receiver, a numeric keypad, or a camera element.
 6. Themodular mobile device of claim 1, wherein the aesthetic aspects of theshell module comprise at least one of a hinged clamshell design, aruggedized case, a slider mechanism, a headset jack, a charging jack, aPDA-style case, or a thinline-style case.
 7. The modular mobile deviceof claim 6, wherein the power-source component is chargeable uponconnection of the charging jack, located on the shell module, to anappropriate external power supply, wherein power from the external powersupply flows to the power-source component via the power-transferconnector of the I/O interface exposed by the core module.
 8. Acomputerized method for engaging a core module and a shell module tofunction as a modular mobile device, the computerized method comprising:receiving an indication of the shell module attaching to the coremodule, wherein a power-source component and a processing component areintegral to the core module while the shell module includes constituentcomponents that are mutually exclusive from the components of the coremodule; imparting power to the shell module from the power-sourcecomponent, thereby attempting to activate the constituent components ofthe shell module; when activated, executing a recognition procedure todetermine a configuration of the shell module, wherein the recognitionprocedure comprises: (1) extracting available properties from theconstituent components; and (2) utilizing the properties to determine anidentity of each of the constituent components; incident to recognizingthe constituent components, integrating operational control of theconstituent components with the processing component such that theprocessing component manages the constituent components as though theyare native to the core module; decoupling the core module from the shellmodule, thereby rendering the core module a standalone device; andmaintaining functionality of the processing component as previouslyinstructed when engaged to the shell module, wherein maintainingfunctionality of the processing component comprises storing instructionsreceived from a corollary shell module previously integrated with thecore module, and continuing to exert operational control of thecorollary shell module according to the instructions.
 9. Thecomputerized method of claim 8, wherein receiving an indication of theshell module attaching to the core module comprises: detecting anoperable coupling of a power-transfer connector exposed by the coremodule to a shell-power connector located on the shell module, whereinthe power-transfer connector is electrically connected to thepower-source component thereby allowing the core module to impart powerto the shell module; and detecting an operable coupling of aninput/output (I/O) connector exposed by the core module to a shell I/Olocated on the shell module, wherein the I/O connector iscommunicatively connected to the processor component.
 10. Thecomputerized method of claim 9, further comprising maintaining awarenessthat the shell component is in operable communication with the corecomponent by monitoring the integrity of the coupling of the I/Oconnector to the shell I/O.
 11. The computerized method of claim 8, therecognition procedure further comprising: interrogating the constituentcomponents to determine whether the properties thereof are available orunavailable; when the properties are unavailable, producing an errormessage indicating one or more of the constituent components associatedwith the unavailable properties; and otherwise, identifying theconstituent components associated with the available propertiesextracted therefrom.
 12. The computerized method of claim 8, furthercomprising: receiving a user-initiated input from a first recognizedconstituent component at the processing component; and controllingoperation of a second recognized constituent component via a commandgenerated by the processing component in response to the user-initiatedinput.
 13. The computerized method of claim 9, wherein attempting toactivate the constituent components of the shell by imparting powerthereto comprises: administering power from the power-transfer connectorto the shell-power connector via the operable coupling of the shellmodule and the core module; monitoring the data transfer between theshell I/O located on the shell module and the I/O connector exposed bythe core module; based on the data transfer, determining whether one ormore of the constituent components are activated; and when each of theconstituent components are deactivated, producing an error messageindicating an incompatible shell module.
 14. The computerized method ofclaim 8, wherein integrating operational control of the constituentcomponents with the processing component comprises: comparing theproperties of the identified constituent components against shellprofiles to determine capabilities of the identified constituentcomponents, wherein the shell profiles include a list of thecapabilities intrinsic to various constituent components; and appendingthe determined capabilities to a device menu structure thereby allowingthe processing component to manage the constituent components in concertwith the components integral to the core module.
 15. The computerizedmethod of claim 14, wherein integrating operational control of theconstituent components with the processing component further comprises:determining that the properties of one or more of the identifiedconstituent components are absent from the shell profiles; automaticallyinstalling capabilities associated with the one or more of theidentified constituent components based on properties thereof; andappending the installed capabilities to the device menu structure. 16.The computerized method of claim 15, wherein integrating operationalcontrol of the constituent components with the processing componentfurther comprises: utilizing the device menu structure to instantiate adriver element within the processing component to operably control eachof the constituent components; and rendering the constituent componentsfunctional.
 17. The computerized method of claim 8, further comprisingalerting a user of the modular mobile device that the core module andthe shell module are successfully engaged.
 18. The computerized methodof claim 8, further comprising: operably coupling a corollary shellmodule to the shell module, wherein the corollary shell module includessupplemental constituent components that are mutually exclusive from thecomponents integral to the core module; automatically executing therecognition procedure to determine a configuration of the corollaryshell module; and integrating operational control of the supplementalconstituent components with the processing component such that theconstituent components, the supplemental constituent components, and thecomponents integral to the core module act in concert under themanagement of the processing component.
 19. A method for disengaging acore module and a shell module previously functioning as a modularmobile device, the computerized method comprising: providing the shellmodule and the core module, wherein a power-source component and aprocessing component are integral to the core module while the shellmodule includes constituent components that are mutually exclusive fromthe components of the core module, and wherein operational control ofthe constituent components is integrated within the processing componentsuch that the processing component manages the constituent components asnative to the core module; and detaching the shell module from the coremodule, wherein detaching comprises: (1) decoupling a power-transferconnector exposed by the core module from a shell-power connectorlocated on the shell module thereby disallowing the core module toimpart power to the shell module, wherein the power-transfer connectoris electrically connected to the power-source component; (2) decouplingan input/output (I/O) connector exposed by the core module from a shellI/O located on the shell module thereby disarticulating operable controlof the constituent components from the processing component, wherein theI/O connector is communicatively connected to the processor component;(3) rendering the core module a standalone device; and (4) maintainingfunctionality of the processing component as previously instructed whenengaged to the shell component, wherein maintaining functionality of theprocessing component comprises storing instructions received from acorollary shell module previously integrated with the core module, andcontinuing to exert operational control of the corollary shell moduleaccording to the instructions.